Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Kids for the Future; Merrillville (IN); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) with employer match

Opportunities for advancement

Job summary

AccessAbilities is seeking Experienced Direct Support Professionals for weekday evenings and weekend shifts in Northwest Indiana. You will provide direct support to individuals with disabilities, ensuring safety, dignity, and compliance while promoting independence.

The role requires attention to detail, professional standards, and the ability to build meaningful relationships within a structured, supportive residential setting.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2+ years of verifiable DSP experience preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of documentation and compliance requirements.
• CPR & First Aid certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Implement PCISPs and behavior support strategies with consistency.
• Assist with activities of daily living while promoting independence.
• Administer and document medications per state requirements.
• Complete clear, timely, audit-ready documentation.
• Maintain a safe, structured, person-centered environment.
• Communicate changes in health, behavior, or risk to leadership.
• Support community integration and transportation, including outings.

Skills

DSP experience

Documentation knowledge

CPR & First Aid

Job description

• Base Pay $16.00 - $16.00 / Hour
• Job Category direct care
• Industry human services, social services
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt
• Required Degree NONE
• Travel 30%
• Manage Others No

Do you enjoy building genuine connections while making a meaningful difference? At AccessAbilities, you can do that — while working alongside individuals who are easygoing and a joy to support.

AccessAbilities is seeking experienced Direct Support Professionals who operate at a high standard of care, accountability, and professionalism to work weekday evening shifts (3pm-11pm) and weekend shifts (7am-3pm, 3pm-11pm) in Northwest Indiana.

This role is designed for career Direct Support Professionals who understand that direct support is skilled work requiring judgment, documentation discipline, regulatory awareness, and consistent execution.

We are looking for professionals who take ownership of outcomes and contribute to a stable, high-performing residential environment. Our residential sites are structured, supportive environments where positive relationships and mutual respect are central to daily life. If you are proactive, driven, solutions-oriented, and growth-minded, this is an opportunity to work in an organization that values experience, maintains strong standards, and fosters a supportive team culture.

The Role

The Experienced DSP provides direct support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while ensuring compliance, safety, and dignity in all aspects of care.

You will:

• Implement Person Centered Individual Support Plans (PCISPs) and behavior support strategies with consistency
• Provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) while promoting independence
• Administer and document medications in compliance with state requirements
• Complete clear, timely, and audit-ready documentation
• Maintain a safe, structured, and person-centered environment
• Communicate effectively with leadership regarding changes in health, behavior, or risk
• Support community integration and transportation, including recreational outings and activities

This is not a passive caregiving role. It requires attention to detail, sound judgment, and pride in professional standards — balanced with the ability to build meaningful, positive relationships.

Who Thrives Here

Our strongest DSPs:

• Hold themselves accountable without constant supervision
• Anticipate needs rather than reacting to problems
• Understand waiver expectations and compliance standards
• Support team culture through reliability and consistency
• Take initiative to strengthen both client outcomes and operational stability
• Enjoy engaging with individuals in activities that promote connection and quality of life

We value DSPs who see this as a profession — not a temporary position — and who appreciate that providing excellent support can also be rewarding and enjoyable.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 2+ years of verifiable DSP experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is preferred
• Strong working knowledge of documentation and compliance requirements
• CPR & First Aid certification preferred
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance
• Ability to pass all background and regulatory screenings
• HCSP training and medication administration experience strongly preferred

Summary

Compensation and Benefits

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Health, dental, vision, and additional insurance options (based on eligibility)
• 401(k) with employer match (based on eligibility)
• Opportunities for advancement into Lead and Site-level leadership roles
• Structured, mission-driven team environment

If you are an experienced DSP seeking a professional environment where high standards are expected and respected — and where the individuals you support are engaging, personable, and enjoyable to work with — we encourage you to apply.

AccessAbilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace.